British military seeking to recruit cyber-warriors

Britain is to set up a dedicated military unit to counter cyber attacks, the defense secretary announced yesterday as he issued a call for tech-savvy new recruits.

The Ministry of Defence is looking to recruit hundreds of computer experts to help defend Britain’s national security.

The “cyber reservists” would work alongside regular forces in the new Joint Cyber Reserve Unit in a bid to protect key computer networks and safeguard data.

The new capability would be able to “counter-attack in cyber-space and, if necessary, to strike in cyber-space as part of our full-spectrum military capability,” British Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative Party said.

The center-right party began its annual conference yesterday.

“In response to the growing cyber threat, we are developing a full-spectrum military cyber capability, including a strike capability, to enhance the UK’s range of military capabilities,” British Secretary of State for Defence Philip Hammond said.

“Increasingly, our defense budget is being invested in high-end capabilities such as cyber and intelligence and surveillance assets to ensure we can keep the country safe,” he said.

“The cyber reserves will be an essential part of ensuring we defend our national security in cyber-space,” Hammond said.

As well as targeting regular personnel leaving full-time roles and existing reservists with the right skill set, Hammond hopes to attract experts who would not otherwise consider joining up. Recruitment starts next month.